A further $791,000 is being injected into critical social services in South and Central Auckland under the Government’s Community Response Fund.

“To date, the Community Response Fund has contributed almost $3.4 million in the region to ensure 74 community organisations have the support they need to provide social services,” says Social Development Minister Paula Bennett.

This is round three of the fund, established last year to help NGOs meet critical demand while under financial pressure from an economic recession.

“We’ve made the commitment to ensure that groups providing vital social services can respond successfully to needs in their community.

“Applications were assessed by a regional panel with community representation. The panel has made sure that we’ve got the mix right. We trust communities to know themselves best and where support is needed most,” says Ms Bennett.

Community organisations apply for funding under two criteria: financial crisis and increased demand, including innovative ways to meet increased demand.

Round Three has seen an easing in the grants for crisis and demand, together with an increase in innovative solutions.

“The increase in innovation tells me that given support and opportunity, communities are smart and resourceful, well able to solve their own issues.

“We’re seeing greater collaboration and more sharing of back office functions among providers who continue to improve as a result,” says Ms Bennett.

The Community Response Fund has provided $25 million to 479 organisations across the country.

Applications for Round Four of the Community Response Fund opened in February and will close in July.

Media contact: Jackie Blue 021 224 1347

This entry was posted by admin on Monday, July 5. 2010 at 10:14. and is filed under Press Release.